ProspectNation 2011: #21 Jonathan Pettibone- RHP

Right-handed pitcher Jonathan Pettibone, a third round selection in the 2008 amateur draft by the Phillies, was a member of the Lakewood BlueClaws club that won a second consecutive South Atlantic League championship on 2010. As a member of the Class A ‘Claws, Pettibone was a force on the team’s starting staff. In 24 games (23 starts) he posted a record of 8-6 with a 3.49 ERA.

Pettibone is an aggressive pitcher who steadily focuses on attacking the strike zone and trusts his defense to get outs behind him. His pitch repertoire consists of a four-seam fastball that was clocked at 94mph during the playoffs in September, a change up and a curve ball.

The California native, Pettibone, improved his velocity this past season by working closely with pitching coach Steve Schrenk to adjust his mechanics and extension. His results on the mound became increasingly solid as the 2010 season progressed and he opened many eyes within the organization and outside of it, as teams made their interest in the 6’5″ 200 pounder known to the Phillies. After posting a 5.04 ERA in 12 games through the end of June, Pettibone served up a 2.37 ERA over his final 12 appearances of the regular season.

In the postseason, Pettibone continued to shine brightly. He hurled a gem in Lakewood’s first round playoff series against the Hickory Crawdads, striking out 9 batters in 7 innings, while allowing just 1 hit against the Texas Rangers affiliate. He also notched the win that clinched the SAL championship for the BlueClaws, with a 5 strike out, 1 walk, 2 earned run performance in 5 innings against Boston affiliate, the Greenville Drive.

Previously, Pettibone spent the 2009 season with the short season Williamsport Crosscutters. While there, Pettibone went 2-4 with a 5.35 ERA while striking out 36 batters in 35 1/3 innings, over 9 games.

Going forward as a member of a stacked group of young starting pitchers ready to make a move into the High A Level Clearwater starting rotation next season, Pettibone will have some serious competition for one of those spots from guys like Trevor May, Jarred Cosart, Brody Colvin, Colby Shreve and Nick Hernandez.

Former Major League catcher Mark Parent, who managed Pettibone with Lakewood in 2010, describes the lanky pitcher as a guy who seems to have a lot left in the tank at the end of his outings.

Headed forward, Pettibone certainly remains a young hurler that Phillies fans should be excited about and looking forward to becoming more familiar with, as he ascends toward the Major Leagues.

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Jay Floyd is PhilliesNation’s minor league contributor. You can read more from Jay by visiting his website, PhoulBallz.com.